operation herof

Pakistan faces a deepening security crisis in Balochistan as the Baloch Liberation Army escalates its campaign through "operation herof. This surge impacts Pakistan's economy, foreign relations, and investor confidence. The region's strategic importance, particularly for China's Belt and Road Initiative and mineral resources, is now under strain.

Bashir Zaib, a former engineering student and poet, now leads the Baloch Liberation Army, directing attacks against Pakistani security forces and Chinese projects. His rise from student activism to commanding a militant group has captured public attention, with his image even drawing comparisons to a movie character. The BLA's recent 'Herof 2.0' operation signifies a new phase of intensified attacks.

Combat-related deaths in Pakistan surged 43% in January, reaching 361, with militant attacks rising 28% to 87. Balochistan experienced the highest monthly militant death toll since 2001, driven by coordinated BLA attacks and subsequent security operations. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also saw a significant increase in incidents.

The wave of attacks saw around a dozen participants ranging from 60-year-old Hatam Naz Sumalani to 70-year-old Nako Fazal Baloch who blew themselves up at different locations during the violence. But by trading classrooms and social media feeds for the frontlines, Mengal and Baloch have signalled a deepening crisis within the province.